A novel hierarchical semi-centralized telemedicine network architecture proposition for Bangladesh

Abstract

One of the major functions of telemedicine is the prompt delivery of modern healthcare to the remotest areas with reduced cost and efficient use of communication resources. The establishment of a well organized telemedicine system is therefore exigent for the developing countries like Bangladesh where there are extreme paucities of efficient healthcare professionals and equipments, specifically in the rural areas. In this paper a novel, hierarchical and semi-centralized telemedicine network architecture has been proposed holistically focusing on the rural underdeveloped areas of Bangladesh. The model utilizes the existing fiber optic backbone and wireless telecommunication infrastructures to connect the remote healthcare centers with the urban specialized hospitals. The proposed network is of low cost, flexible and faster as well as more concrete than the existing healthcare organogram of Bangladesh. Finally, some features and services associated with the model have also been proposed which are pragmatic and easily implementable. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.